Parent Opinion Survey - Safety

 Dear Parents, 

In this second edition regarding the Parent Opinion Survey we unpack the ways staff intervene to assist students who demonstrate inappropriate behaviours. As with all things at school, social interactions that do not go as planned are learning opportunities. We also understand that we are dealing with children who are all learning social cues, social interactions and socially appropriate ways to behave at different rates. 

When things do not go as planned, our aim is to first and foremost ensure the safety of all involved. We then aim to develop an understanding of how actions impact others, and importantly how we can restore an imbalance so all parties feel safe, valued and listened to. What this looks like will be different depending on the age of the student, the behaviour being displayed and the frequency of behaviours. One size does not fit all and so each response may be slightly different. 

Having heard from many parents when incidents do arise, two questions are most commonly asked. What are the consequences for the student who did something to my child, and can you ensure this does not happen again? 

I often mention to parents that we praise in public whilst we punish in private. By that I mean we work quietly behind the scenes when issues arise and we only discuss your child with you, just as we only discuss someone else's child with them. Whilst your child may tell you that nothing was done, that is rarely the case.  We approach these issues calmly, methodically and discreetly. And whilst we will continue to use these times to educate those involved, just as with maths and English and all other forms of learning, some will pick up the cues quickly, whilst others take longer and need more time.

So when you see questions like "Teachers at this school model positive behaviour", "The school treats my child with respect" or "The school has a consistent approach to promoting positive student behaviour" please know that whilst the positive aspects are well publicised like buzz awards, student of the week awards and similar, the management of inappropriate behaviours is done so in partnership with parents and teachers out of public view with a view to education wherever possible over consequences. 

Regards, 

Mackellar PS